Fish oils are found in salmon, trout, mackerel, and other fatty fish. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, the vast majority contain a high quantity of vitamins A and D along with fatty acids and other nutrients vital to human health. But, is taking a fish oil supplement or adding extra fish to your plate really that beneficial?
Q: What are omega-3 fatty acids?
Marla Ahlgrimm: Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of chemical used by the human body. They are found in the brain and retina. Unfortunately, we do not produce our own, so it is necessary to extract this nutrient from our food or, in more modern times, an omega-3 supplement.
Q: Is taking an omega-3 fatty acid supplement helpful in reducing your risk of the coronavirus?
Marla Ahlgrimm: Possibly. Recent studies have found that individuals, and especially women, that take a fish oil supplement along with probiotics and vitamin D are at a lower risk of contracting the virus and experiencing severe side effects. It should be noted that taking a vitamin supplement is not a replacement for other risk-mitigating behaviors, such as social distancing and mask wearing.
Q: Are omega-3 fatty acids linked to prostate cancer? 
Marla Ahlgrimm: This question has two very paradoxical answers. On one hand, some research suggests that a diet full of omega-3’s may help some men lower the risk of prostate cancer. But, taking a fish oil supplement or eating too many omega-3 -containing foods may actually increase a man’s risk of certain types of prostate cancer.
Q: What are the most noted benefits of omega-3 fatty acids?
Marla Ahlgrimm: People with high blood pressure and high triglyceride levels may lower these by eating foods with fish oils. There are also studies that suggest that eye health and fetal development may also be affected positively by healthy levels of omega threes. People at-risk of neurological conditions, such as cognitive decline, PTSD, ADHD, and depression may also lower the risk of these conditions worsening when exposed to adequate levels of omega-3s.
